ADHD

A woman wearing glasses and headphones sits at a desk, looking thoughtful. She is in a home office setting with a laptop, papers, and a plant visible in the background.ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. It is characterized by persistent patterns that interfere with functioning or development. These patterns typically include inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity.

It is normal for children to have trouble focusing and behaving at one time or another. However, children with ADHD do not just grow out of these behaviors. ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood. Neurodevelopmental means the way the brain grows and develops.

ADHD is: 

  • More frequently diagnosed in boys than girls
  • Occurs in about five percent of children worldwide, and just over nine percent in the United States
  • Occurs in about 2.5 to 4 percent of adults worldwide

There has been an increase in ADHD diagnoses over recent decades, partly due to greater awareness and better diagnostic tools. This rise in diagnosis may also reflect a better understanding of the disorder and its symptoms across different age groups. 

What are the symptoms of ADHD?

Symptoms of ADHD typically fall into three main categories:

Inattention

  • Inattention

  • Difficulty staying on task

  • Trouble sustaining focus

  • Issues staying organized

  • Forgetfulness with daily behaviors

  • Easily distracted

Hyperactivity

  • Moving about constantly

  • Fidgets or taps

  • Restlessness

  • Trouble staying seated

  • Overtalking

Impulsivity

  • Impulsive behaviors

  • Acting without thinking

  • Trouble with self-control

  • Desire for immediate rewards

  • Inability to delay gratification

  • Frequently interrupts others 

How is ADHD diagnosed?

Diagnosing ADHD involves a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional. Deciding if a person has ADHD is a process with several steps, since there is no single test to diagnose ADHD.

For a person to receive a diagnosis of ADHD, the symptoms must be:

  • Chronic or long-lasting
  • Impair the person’s functioning
  • Cause the person to fall behind typical development or expectations for their age

It is important to seek help from a trained professional because stress, sleep disorders, anxiety, depression, and other physical conditions or illnesses can cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD. 

ADHD Treatment

Medications

Stimulants (like methylphenidate and amphetamines) and non-stimulants (such as atomoxetine) are commonly prescribed to help manage symptoms

Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help individuals develop strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their organizational skills

Educational Support

Special accommodations and support at school or work can help individuals with ADHD succeed in their academic and professional lives

Lifestyle Changes

Establishing routines, setting clear goals, and employing organizational tools can also be beneficial

What are the consequences of untreated ADHD?

If ADHD goes undiagnosed, you may see signs such as:

  • Struggle with focus
  • Decline in academic performance
  • Disorganization and issues with time management
  • Job challenges including missed deadlines or errors
  • Depression and/or anxiety
  • Stress within relationships